Doug's Take
The BMW Z3 M Roadster is a fun convertible that boasts timeless styling, a mandatory 5-speed manual transmission, and a great soundtrack from its lively S52 6-cylinder engine. This particular example touts a gorgeous Boston Green Metallic finish and some great factory equipment, including 17-inch Style 40 wheels, a limited-slip differential, and heated seats – and its reinforced rear subframe is a nice benefit. It also comes with a clean, accident-free Carfax report, for added peace of mind. We've seen this Z3 M before, and I'm happy to see it return for another thrilling no-reserve auction!
Highlights
THIS... is a 1998 BMW Z3 M Roadster, finished in Boston Green Metallic with a black soft top and a black interior.
- The attached Carfax history report lists no accidents or mileage discrepancies in this Z3 M's past.
- According to the build sheet provided in the gallery, notable factory equipment includes 17-inch Style 40 wheels, a limited-slip differential, Nappa leather upholstery, heated seats, and air conditioning.
- Notable modifications reported by the seller include a Randy Forbes subframe reinforcement kit, H&R lowering springs, Bilstein struts, Goodridge stainless steel brake lines, a Pioneer head unit, Kicker speakers, and a Stinger Audio amplifier.
- Based on the Z3, the M Roadster made its debut in 1998 with a more powerful engine shared with the E36 M3, a sportier suspension system, and wider wheel arches, among other changes. It was immediately hailed as one of the best driver's cars on the market.
- Power comes from an S52 3.2-liter inline-6, rated at 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. mission.
Equipment
A build sheet is provided in the photo gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment reported by the seller includes:
- 17-inch Style 40 wheels
- Limited-slip differential
- Power-retractable soft top
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Heated and power-adjustable seats
- Air conditioning
Modifications
Notable modifications reported by the seller include:
Mechanical:
- Randy Forbes subframe reinforcement kit
- Aftermarket air intake system
- H&R lowering springs
- Bilstein struts
- Rogue Engineering dual-finned differential cover
- Clutch delay valve deleted
- Goodridge stainless steel brake lines
- Upgraded alloy hood release lever
Interior:
- Pioneer head unit
- Kicker speakers and subwoofer
- Stinger Audio amplifier
- Garagistic Delrin shift knob
Known Flaws
- Chips and scratches around the exterior
- Some wear on seats
- Power soft top is inoperative (opens and closes manually)
- Wear on interior touch points and trim panels; cracked center console trim
- Rearview mirror detached (included in the sale)
- Some corrosion in trunk area and on underbody components; worn ball joint boots and front control arm bushings
- Seeping oil pan, oil feed line, and thermostat housing
Recent Service History
The attached Carfax history report shows that the following services have been performed:
- July 2024: Engine oil and filter changed
- May 2024 (190,132 miles): Brake fluid flushed/changed. spark plug(s) replaced, valve cover gasket(s) replaced
- December 2021 (185,000 miles): Engine oil and filter changed, engine oil system flushed
The seller reports that the following services have been performed, although no documentation was provided to verify:
- 2025: Air intake hoses replaced, aftermarket sound system installed
- May 2024: Tires replaced
Additional service history is detailed in the attached Carfax history report.
Other Items Included in Sale
- 1 key
- Assorted spare parts (pictured in the gallery)
- Soft top cover
Ownership History
The seller purchased this Z3 M on Cars & Bids in August 2024 and has added approximately 2,300 miles since. The previous auction is viewable here.
Seller Notes
- Due to the modifications performed to this Z3 M, it may not pass emissions testing in some states. As always, it's the buyer's responsibility to perform all due diligence regarding registering this Z3 M in their respective state prior to placing a bid.
- The seller notes that the front and rear bumpers have been repainted.